
Animal-care specialists and veterinarians at SeaWorld released on Oct. 25 a green sea turtle — the apparent victim of gunshot wounds, dehydration and lacerations — back in to the wild after a 10-month stint of recovery and treatment. Bruce the turtle was originally discovered in January by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration officials in the South Bay area, suffering from wounds, lethargy and shortness of breath. At the time, Bruce weighed about 250 pounds and suffered from several lacerations and a crack in his underside. Since then, SeaWorld animal-care specialists have treated Bruce with antibiotics, pain medication and rehydration fluids to save his life. He now weighs a robust 300 pounds and can forage on his own, according to SeaWorld officials. Bruce was transported to the Chula Vista Bayfront Park, where he was released. The turtle was outfitted with an acoustic transmitter that replaces the one Bruce had at the time of his rescue. Animal-care experts hope to monitor and track his movements in San Diego Bay and believe the threatened species will stay in the area. For more information, visit www.seaworldparks.com/SeaWorld-SanDiego.